It is well established that bending, lifting, and twisting are the movements that cause most back pain. Biomechanically, these actions put more stress on the sacroiliac joints than on the lumbar discs. So, when we consider biomechanical approaches to back, hip, or leg pain, we should first look at the sacroiliac joint because of how forces are transferred through our structure. When force (weight) is transmitted downward through the spine …
There are two major causes of sciatica, both of which involve irritation to the sciatic nerve, but differ in where the pressure is applied, yet both have the same original cause, the sacroiliac joint. The pain is most often felt in the buttocks but may follow the nerve down the back of the upper leg to the outside of the calf, and into the big toe. In some instances, it …
After spending nine long months nurturing a life in the womb and experiencing the physiological and biomechanical effects of a pregnancy, you are eager to get back to your previous conditioning. But it is not as simple as returning to the exercise program you had before. Your muscles are weaker and unconditioned but, more importantly, your ligaments are also weaker. Ligaments, hormones and exercise play a key role in getting …
Winter can be a beautiful and busy time of year with glistening, snowy landscapes, holiday fun and long-awaited opportunities to enjoy beloved winter activities, but the commotion of the season and cold temperatures can increase tension in our joints and bones. From shoveling snow, to hanging holiday decorations, to engaging in winter sports such as skiing or ice skating, the sacroiliac joints (SIJs) are being activated, which for many individuals …
